How to get verified on Instagram

Friday, January 25, 2019

Here’s How to Get Verified on Instagram (Yes, Anyone Can Apply Now)Michael Aynsley, blog.hootsuite.com

If you want to know how to get verified on Instagram, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide we’ll tell you how to apply for verification (that’s the easy part) and what you need to qualify (that’s the hard part).

How to get verified on Instagram

Applying only takes a few moments.

Step 1: Open the Instagram app and go to your profile.

Step 2: Tap the menu icon in the upper right-hand corner.

Instagram verification step 2: menu icon

Step 3: Click the “Settings” gear icon at the bottom of your screen.

Instagram verification step 3: settings icon

Step 4: Scroll down and tap “Request Verification.”

Request verification button on Instagram

Step 5: Fill in your account name, full name, what you’re “Known As,” and your category (media, influencer, brand, etc.). Then upload a photo of your ID if you’re a person, or a legal or business ID if you have an Instagram for Business account.

Instagram verification application fields

Step 6: Hit “Send”

Simple enough, right?

After reviewing your application, you’ll be notified whether your request is approved or denied. But don’t expect a response right away. There’s not a specified timeline for how long the process takes.

So, should you apply? Let’s answer some frequently asked questions.“Is Instagram verification really all that great?”

A verified badge is a check that appears next to your account name. It tells people that your profile is the “authentic presence of a notable public figure, celebrity, or global brand.”

The blue check also helps people avoid imposter accounts and easily find the brands or public figures they want to follow.

“What do I need to be verified by Instagram?”

The coveted blue check wouldn’t be coveted if it was easy to attain.

Verification is reserved for accounts that Instagram deems “in the public interest.” More specifically, you must be a public figure, celebrity or global brand.

And you must adhere to the network’s Terms of Service and Community Guidelines. And then, Instagram explains on its website, your account must also be:

Authentic. Obviously you have to be who you say you are. That is, a real person, registered business, or brand.

Unique. Only one account per person or business may be verified, with exceptions of language-specific accounts. Instagram says it does not verify general interest accounts like meme roundups.

Public. If you’re looking to get verified, surely your account is already viewable to everyone, yes?

Complete. You must have a bio, profile photo, and at least one post. Note: Instagram says your profile must not contain “add me” links to other social media services.

Notable. Again, Instagram stresses that verified accounts must “represent a well-known, highly searched for person, brand, or entity.” When it reviews a verification application, Instagram looks at whether the user is featured in multiple news sources. Paid or promotional content doesn’t count.

Bonus: Download a free checklist that reveals the exact steps an adventure photographer used to grow from 0 to 110,000 followers on Instagram with no budget and no expensive gear.

“What if I can’t get verified by Instagram?”

If you can’t get verified, there are other ways to convey the authenticity of your Instagram account—and boost your chances down the road.

1. Promote your Instagram account on your website and other social profiles

Not only will this help more people find you on Instagram, it will clear up any confusion about which accounts are your official ones.

So include a link to your Instagram profile on your other social media channels, website, and any other online profile you maintain.

2. Share your Instagram account in other communications

You could also include your Instagram handle in your email signature or newsletter. This will ensure that people who are already in contact with your brand can find you on Instagram.

Photo of an Instagram handle in an email signature to get more followers

You should also embed your Instagram content in blog posts. That way people that discover your blog via a search engine can connect with you on the ‘gram.

And don’t rule out offline communications tools like product packaging, business cards, or signage at an event or store.

3. Maintain a consistent brand aesthetic

Sixty percent of the top brands on Instagram use the same filter for every post, according to an analysis by WebDam.

Using the same filter over and over allows you to establish a look on Instagram that’s consistent with your overall branding—which people should recognize from your website and/or products.

This will serve as a signal to users that your Instagram account is legit.

4. Make sure your Instagram username is the same as it is on other channels

Same concept as above. Consistent branding—text and visual—makes it easy for your followers on other platforms to find and recognize you on Instagram.

5. Include a link to your website on your profile

Another easy way to show that your account is authentic. But again, do not include a link to another network. Instagram says it won’t approve profiles that “contain ‘add me’ links to other social channels.”

6. Write a strong bio

It should showcase who you are and what you do, convey personality, include relevant keywords (for better discoverability) and a compelling call-to-action.

7. Flaunt connections with verified accounts

For example, if you work for a brand that is already verified, include your title and the company’s Instagram handle in your bio. This will boost your credibility.

8. Choose the right profile photo

If you’re representing a brand, this should be the company’s logo.

Whatever image you choose, make sure it follows Instagram’s recommended dimensions for profile photos: 320 x 320 pixels. It must also be centered so that it works with the circular format.

9. Resubmit your application

If at first you’re denied verification, take the time to follow the advice above to improve your profile and grow your audience. Once you’ve made the necessary changes and further establish yourself on the platform, there’s no harm in trying again.

Ultimately, getting verified will depend on sticking to a winning Instagram strategy and building a dedicated following. Do that, have patience, and it could happen for you.